Great Blue Hole Of Belize - Largest Sea Hole In The World Great Belize Blue Hole Belize Blue Hole The Great Blue Hole is a world-class destination for recreational scuba divers attracted by the opportunity to dive in crystal-clear waters and see myriad species of marine life including tropical fish and spectacular coral formations. The marine life in these areas includes nurse sharks, giant groupers, and several types of reef sharks such as the Caribbean reef shark and the Blacktip shark. Dive excursions to the Great Blue Hole are full-day trips, that usually consist of one dive in the Blue Hole and two additional dives in nearby reefs. The Great Blue Hole is in our list of Top 10 Reasons Why You Should Visit Belize . The Great Blue Hole is a large underwater sinkhole off the coast of Belize. It lies near the center of Lighthouse Reef, a small atoll 100 kilometres (62 mi) from the mainland of Belize City. The hole is circular in shape, over 300 metres (984 ft.) across and 125 metres (410 ft.) deep.

The world’s largest natural formation of its kind, the Great Blue Hole is part of the larger Barrier Reef Reserve System, a World Heritage Site of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Glyn Collinson, a NASA scientist who recently dived the Great Blue Hole described it thus: “It was the deepest, deep blue hole imaginable; A chasm that fell away deep into the deep, dark blue. It had been forged out of solid rock as caverns, hundreds of thousands of years ago during the last ice age. For eons, water filtered through the rock and into these great stone cathedrals, breeding multicolored stalactites and stalagmites. Then, one by one they collapsed in on each other, creating a chasm four hundred feet deep. As Earth’s swollen polar ice-caps receded, the warm Caribbean ocean swept in to fill the chasm with boiling white hands, the last rays of sunlight struck the chasm’s floor. Then, as the limestone broke down, it began to rain tiny fragments of rock, which slowly began to fill the great Blue Hole.” “Alright,” the dive master said, jolting me back to reality. “Welcome to the Blue Hole.

This one is real deep, starting with a drop off from forty feet that goes right the way down to the bottom past 400 feet.” The man held up a detailed custom drawn map of the site and pointed as he talked. “We will go down fast to one hundred and thirty feet where stalactites come down from this overhang. We will stay there for a maximum of twelve minutes, starting from the time that the first pair gets there. We all need to keep together and watch each other. To make sure that you all keep an eye on your depth, the dive pair who goes the deepest will buy a round of drinks for everyone back at the Island.” ‘Great’, I thought, ‘so much for pushing our depth limits.’ Noted SCUBA diver, writer and photographer Rick Frehsee wrote the following account of his research on the Great Blue Hole: Origin of the Belize Atolls “Lighthouse Reef, Glover’s Reef and the Turneffe Islands are all distinct anomalies in the Caribbean. Nothing else in the Western Hemisphere resembles a true coral atoll, except perhaps Chinchorro Reef, off Mexico’s southern Yucatan Peninsula (just above the Belize atolls).

According to geologists they are even more unusual in that the origin of their formation does not seem to mirror the atolls of the Pacific Ocean, where rings of coral are better known. “The ancient processes contributing to Belize atoll development may have begun as many as 70 million years ago and the atolls did not develop around subsiding volcanoes. Instead, they originated atop giant fault blocks; limestone covered ridges that settled in steps, providing a series of offshore platforms for coral growth. After the last ice age, with the slow rise of sea level, coral growth continued upward, creating the precipitous outer walls and the shallow inside lagoon that typifies these distinct formations. Many drop-offs surrounding the Belize atolls are thousands of feet deep, while depths in the shallow lagoons average 10 to 30 feet.” Recent History: Belize Atolls and Great Blue Hole First Explored By Jacques Cousteau “The sense of isolation and remoteness that accompanies a visit to the atolls, belies a rich history. Although only archaeological traces remain, it appears the ancient Maya inhabited at least a few of the atoll islands for more than 1,000 years.

The recorded history of the atolls begins in the early 16th century with the arrival of the Europeans. From 1528 to 1532 Spanish explorers researched and and charted the coastline and offshore reefs of Belize and the Yucatan. “Original names known to the indigenous inhabitants or given by the first Spanish explorers are now obscured. The only names that have survived are published on charts discovered decades after their making. It appears that Turneffe used to be called Terre Nef; Lighthouse Reef, Quattro Cayas (four cayes) or Eastern Reef; and Glover’s Reef, Longorif. The present names evolved with English discovery and occupation in the 1750s. Glover’s Reef was named for the English pirate John Glover, who used this particular atoll as a hideout.

Lighthouse Reef was renamed after a navigational light was permanently established on Half Moon Caye.” In 1836 the famous biologist-evolutionist Charles Darwin paid homage to these remarkable formations when he said the Belize atolls and the Belize Barrier Reef constitute “..the richest and most remarkable coral reefs in the entire western Caribbean.” In the mid 1970s Jacques Cousteau’s Calypso made its famous investigation of the Great Blue Hole and the Belize atolls, which corresponds to the arrival of dive travel to the region. Blue Hole Experience from Captain Ray Auxillou Wide angle view Great Blue Hole in Belize courtesy a Private Island. Canadian-Belizean diver Captain Ray says: “I was one of those early arrivals from the scientific and sport diving community, accompanying the Cousteau divers into the Blue Hole and participating in one of the first dive travel ventures along the Belize River. “Because of the relative isolation, our atolls have remained nearly as pristine as I remember them 30 years ago. As a result of today’s relatively easy travel, this sense of remoteness and the quality of the underwater environment is even more extraordinary.

With only a few exceptions, I can visit any above or underwater site in the Belize atolls and the scene appears unaltered.” On-shore caves of similar formation, as large collapsed sinkholes, are well known in Belize, and in the Yucatan Peninsula, where they are known as “cenotes”. Video – Diving The Great Blue Hole The Other Blue Hole Belize has another, lesser known Blue Hole. This is an inland sinkhole located 12 miles south of the City Of Belmopan in the very center of the country. Yes, it is locally known simply as the Blue Hole. Its location right on the Hummingbird Highway makes this natural swimming pool an attraction for locals and tourists. The inland Blue Hole is within the St. Herman’s Cave system and is administered as a national park, Parking facilities are available and the Blue Hole is accessible by a short flight of stairs that take you down approximately 30 feet into the very cool freshwater pool. The inland Belize Blue Hole off the Hummingbird Highway The Inland Blue Hole is sinkhole formed by the collapse of an underground river channel.

The exposed section of the underground Cave’s Branch River tributary can be viewed for about 150 feet before it disappears again beneath the surface. Located just off the Hummingbird Highway, the inland Blue Hole steps lead to a 30 foot deep pool, for which the park is named. The cool, turquoise waters, surrounded by dense rain forest, overhung with mosses, vines and ferns are the perfect spot for a cool and relaxing dip. Facilities are limited to park rangers during working hours and you can enjoy an exhilarating soak in year-round cool water in perennial shade of rainforest and hills that shield the visitor from the tropical sun. The pool is fed by the Cave’s Branch River and disappears underground around a small sandy beach. A nature walk and St. Herman’s Cave are nearby as is the Belize Cave’s Branch River. This is easily accessible a short 15 minute walk or a 5 minute drive across the highway into the area of Ian Anderson’s jungle lodge. The river in this area is spectacular and is accessible to the general public during working hours.

Belize.com Managing Editor Manolo Romero is a frequent visitor to the area and writes: “The drive is about 5 minutes headed south on the Hummingbird Highway – a very short distance on your left after departing the Blue Hole. This is through a narrow jungle trail with overlapping rainforest. You turn off on your left unto the Ian Anderson’s parking lot that overlooks the Caves Branch River to the front, and the lodge to your right. “If you arrive an hour before lunch or supper, you can report to the lodge and request food and beverage service and this will be arranged. The lodge management is very accommodating to “drop in” visitors provided they request service in advance. “If you are not a guest, feel free to park your vehicle and descend into the river which is sweet and clean water. Throughout most of the year the river is clear, low and safe even for those not experienced in swimming rivers but do check with your guide before taking a dip. “There are some stones on the approach so river sandals may be useful. I find that the river has two distinct temperatures. The area adjacent the parking area is just below body temperature and sunny.

The area on the opposite bank is cool and full of shade and privacy and the howler monkeys are not as inquisitive – draw your own conclusions!” St. Herman’s Cave St .Herman’s Cave is located about 450 meters off the Hummingbird Highway in the neighborhood of the inland Blue Hole. The information center and parking are located just off the highway. St. Herman’s cave in Belize The largest of the three known entrances to St. Herman’s Cave sits in a sinkhole 180 feet wide narrowing to a 60-foot wide entrance. Concrete steps over stone steps once cut by the Maya make for easy access for visitors. A trail with markers is provided within the cave. It is about a half mile through to the first exit. Once inside, visitors can scale large boulders and navigate through the water course, while admiring stunning cave formations. After exploring the cave, you can hike through a 2 mile interpretive trail. Related Articles: Natural wonders - Great Blue Hole - YouTube Natural wonders - Great Blue Hole Want to watch this again later? Sign in to add this video to a playlist. Need to report the video? Sign in to report inappropriate content.

Rating is available when the video has been rented. This feature is not available right now. Please try again later. Published on Feb 23, 2015 Natural wonders - Great Blue Hole The Great Blue Hole is a large submarine sinkhole off the coast of Belize. It lies near the center of Lighthouse Reef, a small atoll 70 km from the mainland and Belize City. The hole is circular in shape, over 300 m across and 124 m deep. It was formed during several episodes of quaternary glaciation when sea levels were much lower. Analysis of stalactites found in Great Blue Hole shows that formation took place 153,000; 66,000; 60,000; and 15,000 years ago. As the ocean began to rise again, the cave was flooded. The Great Blue Hole is a part of the larger Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System, a World Heritage Site of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

Natural wonders GREAT BLUE HOLE | BELIZE Search on Jebiga Design & Lifestyle GREAT BLUE HOLE | BELIZE BUY see link| There are places on our wonderful planet so extraordinary that you don’t actually believe they exist until you see them for yourself. Great Blue Hole , located off the coast of a Central American country of Belize, perfectly fits that category. This is one of those nature’s anomalies that will leave you speechless and awe-inspired, and if you happen to be passionate about scuba diving, the Great Blue Hole is the ultimate destination for you. Scuba diving in this place is something that will vividly remain in your mind forever. The Great Blue Hole is actually a submarine sinkhole in the centre of Lighthouse Reef. People who were fortunate enough to see it up close say that it resembles a giant eye amidst a turquoise sea. This is a perfectly circular hole which diameter is approximately 91 metres (over 300 feet). The water here is 125m deep (412 feet), and its temperature is pleasant 24 degrees Celsius (or 76 F).

The walls of the Great Blue Hole are almost transparent from the surface until a depth of 33 metres where you will find amazing stalactites and stalagmites which, oddly enough, angle back. You can dive below these huge overhangs while feeling exceptionally humbled by their size and texture. As far as the marine life goes, the Great Blue Hole is home to stunning sponges and coral formations, sharks, and some of the biggest lobsters you’ll ever see. While we are at the subject of sea creatures, it is worth mentioning that in the late 1960s and early 1970, several divers reported seeing an apparition here that resembled a huge sea serpent which allegedly had distinct red eyes and was whopping 20 feet long. Day trips depart from Ambergris Caye at 5.30am and it takes about two and a half hours to reach the hole, depending on the weather.

Daily Newsletter 1000+ images about Belize on Pinterest | Underwater, Jacques cousteau and Places The Great Blue Hole in Belize | 27 Surreal Places To Visit Before You Die See More Belize blue hole - BBC documentary Great documentary - YouTube Belize blue hole - BBC documentary Great documentary Want to watch this again later? Sign in to add this video to a playlist. Need to report the video? Sign in to report inappropriate content. Rating is available when the video has been rented. This feature is not available right now. Please try again later. Published on Sep 28, 2015 Belize blue hole - BBC documentary 2015 HD - great barrier reef The Great Blue Hole is a large submarine sinkhole off the coast of Belize. It lies near the center . The ultimate skydive in my 22 years of jumping! Exit from 13500 feet in PERFECT weather conditions (ie endless blue . UFO filmed and caught on tape while we were flying over The Great Blue Hole, off the coast of Belize, near Belize City. The Great Blue Hole is a large submarine .

Category Deep inside the jawdropping 310m sinkhole Email a friend AT 310m wide and 125m deep, this azure submarine sinkhole is a paradise for divers in search of crystal-clear water that hides treasures in its depths. Welcome to the Great Blue Hole near Belize, a spectacular sight which Lonely Planet has explored for the new book The World’s Great Wonders. From above, it looks like an eye — a large, dark pupil surrounded by a sliver of turquoise iris, framed by the eyelids of the reef. But now that you’re within its embrace, it’s hard to get a sense of its circular shape. A school of yellow angelfish linger by the reef. A lone parrotfish nibbles on the coral. Pressing on your scuba gear’s purge valve, you follow the stream of bubbles from fellow divers. As you sink lower, you are surprised by the absence of marine wildlife down here. You peer into the darkness, hoping for a glimpse of a turtle, or maybe a shark. But 40m down, there is an even more spectacular sight. Stalactites.

The long swords of limestone, some 10m in length, cling to the roofs of cave inlets. At this depth they appear dirty brown in colour. You approach them tentatively, aware that one flick of a wayward fin could shatter eons of history. After all, stalactites started to form in these caves over 150,000 years ago. Divers descend to stalactites in Blue Hole. Tim Rock/Lonely PlanetSource:Getty Images Into the blue The Great Blue Hole sits in the centre of Lighthouse Reef, a small atoll 70km off the coast of Belize. It’s a diving hotspot, described by Jacques Cousteau as one of the top 10 diving sites in the world. In 1971, Cousteau took his ship Calypso to the Great Blue Hole to chart its depths. When it first formed thousands of years ago, the sinkhole was not underwater. Scientists know this because stalactites exist inside the sinkhole, and yet stalactites cannot form underwater, only in dry air.

Deep inside a jawdropping 310m sinkholeSource:ThinkStock The different layers down the lengths of the stalactites act like a climate timeline. Around 150,000 years ago, when sea levels were 120m lower than today, subterranean caverns started to form. Then as the oceans began to rise, the caves gradually flooded. Underwater photo of brain coral and trunk fish taken in the Great Blue Hole.Source:Flickr Getting to the Great Blue Hole Fly into Belize City, or arrive overland from Guatemala or Mexico, or by boat from Guatemala or Honduras. Getting around Belize’s islands and reefs involves taking tours or diving and snorkelling trips, using boats organised by island accommodations or chartering a vessel. A woman freediving in the ocean.Source:ThinkStock While you’re there Float downriver from Orange Walk Town into the depths of the jungle and the ruins of Lamanai, whose High Temple was one of the largest structures in the Mayan world when it was built in 100BC. Then search for elusive jaguar in the world’s only jaguar reserve, the 518-sq-km Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary.

The jungle is home to all sorts of wildlife, including crocodiles, iguanas, peccaries, coatimundis, spider monkeys and howler monkeys, and countless species of birds. For a staggering array of marine wildlife, kayak Glover’s Reef, where the cays in the central lagoon all have white-coral beaches. Temple in Lamanai.Source:ThinkStock Other great locations for blue holes The Bahamas have more blue holes than any other country in the world and boast the deepest submarine sinkhole, Dean’s Blue Hole, which plunges 202m down in a bay west of Long Island. It’s also home to many inland caves, such as those on the Abaco Islands, which have been flooded by the sea via underground channels. A woman free diving in a blue hole in the Bahamas.Source:ThinkStock As tides have less impact in these inland caves, a layer of fresh rainwater sits on top of the denser salt water, cutting it off from atmospheric oxygen. Thriving in this anoxic lower layer are unique bacteria, whose metabolism heats the water up to as much as 40 degrees celcius.

This is an extract from The World’s Great Wonders by Jheni Osman © Lonely Planet 2014. In stores now, RRP: $34.99 The World’s Great Wonders.Source:Supplied Top 2 Liveaboards in Belize - LiveAboard.com Belize Belize Liveaboard Diving One of the smallest countries in Central America, Belize has one of the largest barrier reefs in the world. Liveaboard diving in Belize offer divers the chance to visit the amzing Belize Barier Reef, the largest in the Northern hemisphere and second largets reef system in the world. A dive cruise onboard a Belize liveaboard will take divers to the famous Blue Hole, a giant blue submarine sinkhole that offers a unique dive into it's depths. Belize the country is a democratic, English and Spanish speaking nation. Located on the Eastern Coast of Central America, the weather is mild, the topography spectacular, and with the largest barrier reef in the Northern Hemisphere, is reputed as one of the regions best diving destinations. From shallow coral gardens to plunging walls in warm turquoise waters, the 300 km Belize Barrier Reef has pristine dive sites among hundreds of atolls and cayes and one giant blue hole.

Luxury Liveaboards offer dive trips with the benefit of visiting a wider area at your leisure, without hordes of other dive operators visiting the same sites. Comfortable living accomodation onboard provides scuba divers the perfect base to explore this amazing natural area. 2 liveaboards in Belize Belize Aggressor IV Liveaboard Diving in Belize The length of most Belize liveaboard dive trips are 8 days / 7 nights. Itineraries may vary slightly but all seek the best dive sites according to the season. Belize can be dived year round. Generally the best months to dive Belize are from March to June, with April to June being whale shark season in Placencia (South). While you may experience some rainfall during this time, the 'wet season' is usually August to October. It is, however, during these months that the water temperature is at its warmest of 28/29C. Water temperature rarely goes below 26C and visibility remains good (up to 40m) throughout the year away from the mainland. Average air temperature in Belize is 27C with generally calm surface conditions.

Currents vary between destinations but conditions are ideal for all levels of diving from beginners to seasoned divers. Budgets for liveaboards range at around 229 euros per day. TURNEFFE ATOLL REEF is the closest and the largest of the 3 atolls, forming a series of mangroves offering great drift dives with some of the larger pelagic such as gigantic shoals of trevallies, snappers, black-tip and hammerhead sharks among others. LIGHTHOUSE REEF is the most easterly of the dive sites in Belize, offering fantastic wall diving and home to the Great Blue Hole HALF MOON CAYE easily offers some of the best wall diving in the world. A sandy stretch laden with garden eels, stingrays and hogfish, then gently slopes towards the reefs numerous swim throughs and tunnels until you reach the drop off at around 25m. To the South West, Painted Wall's spur and groove formations, ranging from 8-40m, is home to species of parrot fish, black durgeon, queen trigger fish. Lookout for white spotted filefish and cowfish in the shallows.

The great BLUE HOLE offers divers the chance to dive a unique dive site in Belize. The Great Blue Hole is a giant submarine sinkhole off the coast of Belize. It lies near the center of Lighthouse Reef, a small atoll 70 km from the mainland and Belize City. The hole is circular in shape, over 300 m across and 124 m deep. Apart from the novelty of diving in a large sinkhole expect clear waters and a variety of flora and fauna as you can see nurse sharks, Caribbean reef sharks and bull sharks Glover's Reef, the most remote and least visited atoll. As such it offers more diversity including goliath grouper, schools of horse-eyed jacks, Atlantic spade fish, eagle rays and turtles. With more than 80km of fringing reef and walls depths range from 7 meters to 900 meters, this is an exciting dive with many underwater photography opportunities. Diving Belize Liveaboards offer the chance to see hundreds of unique critters, topography and possibly even the larger species such as the manta ray, spotted eagle ray or even the whale shark at Gladden Spit (during the spring and early summer months).

Hammerhead shark, Caribbean reef shark and even the oceanic white tip shark have been seen, but these lucky sightings are rare. Other popular sites in Belize Sailing to Glover's Reef, the most remote and least visited atoll. Offering more diversity including goliath grouper, schools of horse-eyed jacks, Atlantic spade fish, eagle rays and turtles. With more than 80km of fringing reef and walls depths range from 7 meters to 900 meters, this is an exciting dive with many underwater photography opportunities. Visit The Elbow, so called because of a dramatic twist in the reef for the chance to see up to 50 spotted eagle rays. Be aware of strong currents. Enjoy more wall diving at Long Caye Wall, Grand Bogue, Silver Caves, Tarpon Caves. The Aquarium, Black Beauty and The Cathedral provide a stunning underwater landscape of coral formations amidst occasional turtle and eagle ray sightings Want to do a wreck dive while you're there? Visit the Wreck of the Sayonara. Tips for Travellers / Travel Facts In Belize, additional liveaboards fees usually include gear rental (not covered), up to 175 USD per.

person, per 7 day trip or USD 260 per 10 day trip, Nitrox is offered at an additional cost of approx. USD 100 per week - USD 150 per 10 day trip. Every diver needs to purchase their own dive insurance. Alcoholic drinks and special gear such as torches may incur additional charges. A USD 95 port fee is also additional to the liveaboard packages, this includes cruising tax and park fee. If you have any questions about extra fees in Belize, please contact us directly. Electricity voltage runs at 110 volts and the standard socket is North American style two-pin plug. Minimum logged dives of approx. 60 are required for some of the dive sites and check dives on Belize liveaboards are often held on the first day. The only recompression chamber in Belize is located on the north side of the airstrip in San Pedro. The chamber stands on Radio Frequency 14.4600 twenty-four hours a day. There are no compulsory vaccinations for travel to Belize, however, we recommend standard protection against tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis, polio, influenza, typhoid and hepatitis A.

There is an endemic Malaria and Dengue Fever risk, especially during the rainy season. For advice on Malaria and Dengue, and the possible threat of the Zika virus seek professional medical advice before travelling. Food borne diseases such as salmonella, amoebic and parasitic infections are not uncommon. It is recommended that you drink only purified bottled water. How to get there Belize Liveaboards depart from Belize City, 12 miles south of Phillip Goldson International Airport (PGIA) in Ladyville. Dedicated trips include dive sites such as The Lighthouse Reef and Turneffe Atoll Reef. These mid-ocean atoll formations offer endless opportunities for world-class wall, drift, and coral-garden diving. International flights to Belize depart regularly from around the world, often with a transfer in Miami, Florida. Flights to Belize are available on multiple airlines, such as American Airlines, British airways, amongst others. From the UK, expect at least an 11 hour trip. From Germany, the journey can take up to 25 hours. Flight times from the USA vary from 3 to 5 hours. Most countries do not require a Visa for travel to Belize. We recommend you check with your local embassy prior to departure.

Valid Passport, proof of return and sufficient funds are required. Please note, there is a USD 35 departure tax, payable in U.S. dollars only. Belize Diving Reviews Peste 1000 de idei despre Blue Hole pe Pinterest | Belize, Scufundări și Jamaica Află mai multe la gadling.com " The Great Blue Hole, Belize " It was formed as a limestone cave system during the last glacial period when sea levels were much lower. As the ocean began to rise again, the caves flooded, and the roof collapsed.Believed to be the world’s largest feature of its kind, the Great Blue Hole is part of the larger Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System 155 Skydiving above the Great Blue Hole. - GreatBlueHole.com Skydiving above the Great Blue Hole January 19, 2015 by admin The Great Blue Hole is a natural wonder than stands on its own.

One of the foremost experts of marine life, aquatics and the life of the sea, Jacques-Yves Cousteau, came to Belize on his vessel, the Calypso in 1971, and he mapped the Blue Hole and made various studies and observations of this natural landmark. Jacques Cousteau who had been around the world many times over, consequently named the Great Blue Hole, as one of the Top Ten Diving Sites In The Whole World. The Great Blue Hole, also known as, Belize Blue Hole, is located about 43 miles (70 km) from the mainland, amidst the low waters of the Lighthouse Reef Atoll, toward the middle of the barrier reef that spans the entire length of the country of Belize. A trip to the great blue hole is an experience you will never forget. The water in Belize is beautiful and when you come onto land the Belizean rain forest is a natural garden with rivers, lagoons, caves, and to top it off the grand, Mayan ruins. Everyday, Belizean tour guides take adventurous tourists and nature lovers to witness the natural and awesome beauty of the Belize Barrier Reef, the atolls, the Blue Hole, the coral reefs and the cayes.

There is diving, and then, there is Diving! Many can say they dived the Great Blue Hole but only a few can say, I sky dived into the Blue Hole. I found this video by video-photographer, Bruno Brokken of folks flying like fearless birds over the Great Blue Hole. It’s awesome. For more info about skydiving into the blue hole contact: Rich Grimm tsunamiskydivers@gmail.com or visit skydivebelize.com Fishing In Belize January 19, 2015 by admin Surrounded by Guatemala on the west and south, Mexico on the north and The Caribbean Sea on the east Belize, the second smallest country of Central America, attracts thousands of tourists every year who come here in search of adventure. Most of the 240 miles coastline is protected and offers the best to fishermen and adventure seekers. The reef and coastal flats are considered to be some of the best sport fishing spots of the western hemisphere. The Belize Barrier Reef is the second largest reef in the world. It houses 70 coral species and 500 species of fish. If you are looking out for an enchanting unique vacation, Belize is the right place for you.

With fast flowing rivers, gorgeous limestone caves, thick rain forests, surging waterfalls, magical Maya ruins, fishing, snorkeling and diving spots and long stretches of white sand beaches you have got a lot to discover in this paradise. Fishing in Belize is an extraordinary experience for those who love to relax while experiencing the nature’s beauty. If you are planning to go fishing in Belize during your vacation there are a few things you need to know. License As per the Belizean law, tourists and nonresidents must apply and own a fishing license before fishing in Belizean waters. Licenses are available for a day, a week or a month. If you just want to see what it’s like to go fishing, you can apply for a license that allows you to fish for a day. If you want to make it a value buy, apply for a weekly or monthly license. Remember that it is mandatory to hold a license; the consequences of not having one will burn a hole in your pocket. You will have to shell out $500 in fines or spend 6 months in the prison. So you see how it can spoil your vacation.

Reefs- a Hot Destination for Fishermen The reefs of Belize are one of the most sought after destinations for the local fishermen and the residents. The fishes found in these reefs are rainbow runners, tarpon, barracuda, triggerfish, grouper, cobia and bonefish. If you wish to get a glimpse of bigger game fishes, go beyond the reefs. Bigger fish, such as marlin, blue / black-fin tuna, pompano, bonito, albacore, mackerel, sailfish and wahoo thrive in the deep waters of these reefs and hence, you need to venture into the depths of the reefs. Popular fishing spots in these reefs are Glover’s reef, Turneffe Islands, and Lighthouse Atolls. Fly Fishing More than 200 miles of the Caribbean coast are perfect for fly fishing. You get to fish snook, permit, bonefish and tarpon on this stretch. Though the license allows you to catch fish, you must release permit, bonefish and tarpon immediately after catching them without causing them harm in any way. This is a mandatory requirement as per the catch-and-release laws of the country.

Catch-and-release Law Fishing is no doubt a very interesting hobby for the tourists who visit Belize. Your vacation is incomplete if you do not go fishing in Belize. However, do not dream of taking the catch from your fishing adventures back home, as the law does not permit you to do so. You must release tarpon, bonefish and permit immediately after you catch them. This law is enforced in order to protect these species from becoming extinct. The Great Blue Hole Do not forget to include a visit to the Great Blue Hole in your vacations. It is one of the most praised natural wonders existing on earth. This is a large sea-hole; probably the largest in the world. It is about 300 meters wide and 125 meters deep. The Great Blue Hole was created about 65,000 years ago due to an increase in the sea level. It is almost circular in shape. It attracts many scuba divers who are on the lookout for rare sea species. Best Time Throughout the year, you can find a variety of species along the reef, the best time for fishing in Belize is from May to July. the sun is out for many hours, and the cold fronts stop passing through local waters during these months.

If you have a guide to assist you, he or she will tell you about the species found during those months and how to enjoy a better fishing experience. If you are planning on going fishing in Belize, you can either bring your own fishing equipment or rent it. If you are staying in a hotel or an inn, you might be able to get fishing equipment from it or have them arrange for you to get some. For assistance on the water, you can hire a fishing guide who is trained, licensed and aware of the government’s policies. You can also book vacations to Belize that include fishing and other sport options online or through travel agents. Belize Barrier Reef January 19, 2015 by admin The Barrier reef of Belize is one of the most spectacular in the world, with it being the longest in the Western hemisphere and the second longest in the world after Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. The whole reef is a staggering one hundred and eighty miles in length and the reef runs along Central America. The reef can be enjoyed in many ways; this includes diving in the great blue hole, fishing or just sight-seeing. Whatever you choose to do the experience will not leave you disappointed because the region is one of sheer beauty.

The reef itself need two things to help it survive, it requires solar energy and chemical nutrients. Nutrients flow into the sea from plant and animals from nearby rivers and creeks, the nutrients are then broken down into chemical nutrients by bacteria and this enables the reef to thrive and grow. The Belize barrier reef has many features; these include barrier reefs, the great blue hole, fringing reefs, Mangrove cays, sand cays, lagoons and estuaries and this makes it even more so spectacular. The reef has a trio of coral atolls which are the Glovers reef, the Lighthouse reef, and the Turneffe Islands. The coral atolls are so special because they are so uncommon outside the Pacific Ocean and this is why the Belize government and people of Belize strive to conserve the Barrier reef of Belize. One of the most amazing phenomenon’s in the Belize barrier reef is the great blue hole and this is truly a spectacular sight. Many people in Belize believed that the great blue hole should have been one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The barrier reef has been in the world heritage system since 1996 and in 2006 it was listed in the world heritage site of in- danger.

The great blue hole is situated around sixty miles from the mainland and the rising of this great blue hole can be traced back a staggering 15,000 years to an early ice age. The great blue hole is a circular sinkhole in the limestone, inside the overall depth of the water is 410 feet deep and the circle is around a quarter of a mile. If you are visiting this barrier reef as a diver then this dive would be top of the list. From 300 BCE to 900CE the Mayan community would fish in the reef and they traded near it. In 1842 Charles Darwin said it was the most remarkable reef in the West Indies, since this its popularity has grown, many people from all over the world visit it and will surely continue to do so. The lengths of unspoilt land are spectacular and although the reef is on the world heritage site in- danger list the government and people do much to conserve the Great Barrier Reef. The barrier reef of Belize is home to many different plants and species and amazingly there are sixty different species of coral. There are in excess of five hundred species of fish and the reef is home to a plethora of spectacular sea life.

These can include whale sharks, dolphins, seahorses, crabs, starfish, manatees, turtles and many species of birds; you may even see the American crocodile. The barrier reef is home to many endangered species so preserving these is very important. The spectacular whale shark can be seen but they are more likely to be spotted during their season which runs from April through to June; even then you may not see one as they tend to feed at night. Other shark species can be spotted and they include Nurse Sharks, Hammerheads and even Oceanic White Tip sharks. The barrier reef of Belize and the great blue hole is such a popular tourist destination but unfortunately it is being affected by constant human visitation. The Coral life is hugely affected simply because people want to pick them which is prohibited or divers stand on them by accident. Environmental factors also play a part and scientists believe that due to the rise in water temperature the corals have experienced what is known as bleaching. This causes the corals to turn white and eventually the coral dies. Although this is still not clear the global climate does play a major factor in conservation on the barrier reef in Belize.

The Great Blue Hole In Belize January 19, 2015 by admin The Great Blue Hole is a name that ignites much intrigue. The majority of the world’s population has never heard of the great blue hole before. Located approximately forty miles from Belize City, this geographical landmark is part of the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System. The blue hole is a popular diving site which is actually a submarine sinkhole. This sinkhole has an impressive depth of 410 feet. Over the course of time, water levels are prone to change, as with any natural body of water. Natural sedimentation is a big part of this change. Of course, it will take years for a remarkable difference in depth to occur. Currently, different depth measurements are usually arrived at due to human error. Scuba divers enjoy this spot as it offers crystal clear water as well as variation of aquatic life. Several types of sharks frequent this location, including Caribbean Reef sharks and Nurse sharks. Jacques Cousteau, the television personality, visited in 1971 to chart the depths and admire the location himself. In 1997 the Great Blue Hole of Belize became a World Heritage site.

This natural wonder is protected by the Belize Audoban Society and is also a Belize National Monument. Locals believe it should be included as one of the seven wonders of the world. Contrary to many oceans and bays, the bottom of the hole is not home to bottom dwellers. The presence of hydrogen sulfide prevents creatures from making the floor their home. The Great Blue Hole Of Belize measures 984 feet across; the world’s largest natural formation of this type. It was originally formed many years ago during the Ice Age. Man can not duplicate it’s intricacy. Trying to duplicate such a natural formation, creating a replica of sorts, would fall short. This is something people need to travel to themselves in order to fully understand the beauty and allure. The Great Blue Hole Of Belize is a travel destination for many scuba-divers. It offers wonderful scenery and excellent swimming conditions. This is but one of many breathtaking sites in the world. Outside of being physically pleasing to the eye, there is also some history attached to this sinkhole. Located in the middle of Lighthouse Reef Atoll, The Great Blue Hole Of Belize was originally formed when sea levels were much lower. It was actually part of a cave system.

The caves were flooded with water and therefore formed The Great Blue Hole Of Belize. Historians agree that this area once acted as a fishing community for the Mayan’s long ago. Human diet was considerably different when the Mayan’s inhabited the area. Today people have the luxury of visiting on technologically advanced boats with the comfort of modern-day foods. It is a true example of the present meeting the past when viewed from a historical aspect. Under-water cameras are able to capture amazing imagery. This makes it possible for scientists, students, and admirers to learn more about this amazing natural geographical formation. Various photographs of the exterior are available through many resources for individuals who are only able to admire The Great Blue Hole Of Belize from afar. Deep-sea adventures can be a thrilling adventure. Not everyone is a great swimmer and fewer still are divers. The vast majority of the population will only come to know this area through photographs, books, or Internet sites. People who are fortunate enough to visit this location in person always leave with a lasting memory and a story or two to share with friends. The Great Blue Hole Of Belize is something of great importance to many people. However, not everyone knows about it.

People who live quite a distance away are not focused on it and therefore it’s meaning can diminish. The same can be said for all natural wonders. The blue hole of Belize is generally not a place young children would appreciate. Young adults and older adults stare in awe. It is very easy to become caught up in daily routines, placing importance on insignificant things. When a day-trip or small vacation is planned for The Great Hole Of Belize, annoyances of daily life melt away. There are many beautiful landscapes the world-over; however, The Great Blue Hole Of Belize tops the list for locals and divers. Scuba Diving in Belize January 19, 2015 by admin Scuba diving is a popular form of diving whereby the diver carries their own breathing apparatus in order to dive deep. This sport has become more popular and it has progressed over the years, nowadays this type of diving allows the scuba diver freedom to explore the ocean at their leisure. There are many beautiful places throughout the world where one can scuba dive and one of the most popular places in Belize is the Great Blue Hole, this can only be described as a magnificent phenomenon. Many have enjoyed Scuba Diving in Belize.

Belize is one of the smallest countries in Central America; the Belize barrier reef is so popular that it comes a close second to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. There are so many different reef types in Belize and all are exciting places to explore, the barrier reef meanders over one hundred and eighty five miles, it lies sixteen miles from the mainland and less than a mile offshore from Ambergris Caye. There are so many places to go scuba diving in Belize. Divers are inspired by the unspoilt surroundings and the captivating reefs. Most sites are easy to access and many are just a short boat ride from the shore. Although now a little overcrowded the main place to scuba dive is the Hol Chan marine reserve, here you can expect to see schools of stingray and nurse sharks. Scuba diving is very popular in this area and there are many scheduled dives throughout the day and night. Conservation is an important concern to the government and the residents, hence no fishing is allowed and the coral cannot be removed. The region has great preservation laws and this is important, diving is enhanced as there is simply so much sea life to view. Scuba divers can expect to dive from forty to one hundred feet deep.

There are many great places to go Scuba Diving In Belize. Without a doubt one of best places to scuba dive in Belize is the Great Blue Hole which can be located at lighthouse reef which is approximately sixty miles from the mainland. Although it is further to travel there are many daily boat trips and The Great Blue Hole is definitely one area not to be missed. The area is spectacular and the large sinkhole that lies in the centre of the reef spans in excess of a quarter of a mile wide. The great blue hole is four hundred and ten feet deep and the place is named so because of the dark blue water that swirls deep inside. Many scuba divers refer to the area as` Blue Holes` and it is thought that it formed many years ago as part of a cave system when the sea levels were much lower. If you are looking to spot a magnificent whale shark then you may consider visiting Gladden Spit which is in Southern Belize. Sightings of the whale shark are very common there, especially from late March through until June. This is a highly conserved area that is visited by scuba divers and those who love natural beauty and sea life, diving and snorkeling is also highly regulated within the region.

Boat trips are limited to specific times of day and the amount of boats allowed in the area at any one time are also limited. Diving is restricted in this area but these waters are home to the magnificent whale shark. No one should pass up on the opportunity of Scuba diving in Belize. If diving is your passion then there are so many reefs and sights to visit. The area consists of unspoilt land that affords spectacular vistas and the region is well conserved by the people and government of Belize. Scuba divers will find that the water temperature and visibility is good all year round. A diving experience at the great blue hole is one that will never be forgotten; expect to see many different species of fish as well as an array of coral. Sharks inhabit the waters and visitors can expect to see the whale shark, the Hammerhead shark, the Caribbean reef shark and at certain times of the year the Oceanic White Tip shark can be seen, in addition to this divers may see Stingray, Barracuda, Manta Ray and the Spotted Eagle Ray. Belize A Perfect Vacation Destination.

January 19, 2015 by admin Anyone who has visited this small Central American destination will be able to answer the question of why is Belize a perfect vacation destination? For such a small country, there is plenty to see and do, and Belize boasts some of the world’s best diving spots, friendly and welcoming people and some of the most spectacular Mayan ruins on the Yucatan peninsula. In addition, Belize is one of the safest and most stable of the Central American countries, English is widely spoken and the local cuisine is delicious – a blend of Caribbean, Spanish and African influences, with an emphasis on fresh seafood. The country is also easy to reach from just about anywhere in the US. There are direct flights from several cities, including Miami, Houston, Atlanta and Dallas; flying time from Miami is just two hours. Although you could spend weeks enjoying the range of outdoor activities available in Belize, you can also sample the country as part of a cruise. Over a million cruise ship passengers disembark at Belize City every year, to enjoy a variety of excursions from the capital. The country’s climate is similar to that of southern Florida and the warm winter months provide a great excuse to escape from the cold American winter.

Belize has become one of the world’s major destinations for diving and snorkeling, and many divers spend their time around the Belize Barrier Reef; only the Great Barrier Reef in Australia is larger. However, there are plenty of other exciting places to explore the ocean, which appeal to experts and beginners alike. As the name suggests, Shark-Ray Alley is one of the best places to see sharks and stingrays, while Gladden Spit is the perfect place to see whale sharks, which feed and gather close to the surface. Ambergris Caye is also a popular spot for diving and relaxing on the beach, although the area also has some of the best nightlife and bars in Belize. Many divers will tell you that the best diving spot is the Great Blue Hole, a huge natural sinkhole located about 60 miles off the coast. If you dive here, you can expect to see various species of sharks and tropical fish, as well as enjoy the beautiful coral formations and the crystal clear waters. The hole, which was formed thousands of years ago during the last ice age, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and divers can enjoy it at their own pace, or join one of the many dive excursions that take in the Great Blue Hole.

However, Belize offers much more for lovers of the outdoors than just diving, and the country is the perfect vacation destination for anyone wanting to enjoy horseback riding, mountain biking, hiking, bird watching, sailing and exploring the country’s network of caves. Many US tour operators offer organized adventure tours, which are a convenient and affordable way to enjoy everything Belize has to offer. Most of these tours have the advantage of allowing you to travel with like minded people in small groups, and benefit from the advice of an expert tour guide. For anyone concerned about the environment, Belize is a well known eco-tourism destination, and nature-friendly lodges offer an opportunity to get away from it all and enjoy wildlife and bird watching. Centuries ago, the Mayans occupied this corner of the Yucatan Peninsula and left behind some impressive monuments. Altun Ha is easy to reach from the capital, Belize City and features two large central squares, and dozens of tombs and temples, many of which are still being excavated. Caracol is the largest Mayan site in the country and is the site of over 100 tombs, as well as the country’s tallest man made structure, the main pyramid standing almost 140 feet high.

Lamanai is considered to be one of the most picturesque of the ruins, and features three large and distinctive pyramids. You can easily visit the ruins on your own, or as part of an organized tour. Spectacular diving, Mayan ruins, a wide variety of outdoor activities, great beaches and delicious food, and a safe and welcoming country; it is easy to answer the question of why is Belize a perfect vacation destination? December 27, 2012 by admin Photos of the Great Blue Hole Filed Under: Photos Tagged With: Great Blue Hole Fishing In Belize Surrounded by Guatemala on the west and south, Mexico on the north and The Caribbean Sea on the east Belize, the second smallest country of Central America, attracts thousands of tourists every year who come here in search of adventure. Most of the 240 miles coastline is protected and offers the … [Read More...] Why Is Belize A Perfect Vacation Destination? Anyone who has visited this small Central American destination will be able to answer the question of why is Belize a perfect vacation destination?

For such a small country, there is plenty to see and do, and Belize boasts some of the world's best diving spots, friendly and welcoming people and some of the most spectacular Mayan ruins on the Yucatan peninsula. In addition, Belize is one of the safest and … [Read More...] Scuba Diving in Belize Scuba diving is a popular form of diving whereby the diver carries their own breathing apparatus in order to dive deep. This sport has become more popular and it has progressed over the years, nowadays this type of diving allows the scuba diver … [Read More...]

Question: The Great Blue Hole is a large submarine sinkhole off the coast of which Central American country?
Answer: Belize